How to Let Your Hair Air Dry

by
JULIA MICHELLE July 18, 2017

Julia Michelle

Julia Michelle has been writing professionally since January 2009. Her specialties include massage therapy, computer tech support, land and aquatic personal training, aquatic group fitness and Reiki. She has an Associate in Applied Science from Cincinnati State Technical and Community College in integrative medical massage therapy.

How to Let Your Hair Air Dry

It's healthier and less damaging to let your hair air dry than to use a hair dryer, especially if your hair is prone to dryness. Air drying also prevents the static and fly-away hair common in the dry winter months. Thick or curly hair may take longer to air dry, or may tangle without the addition of heat. Even those with straight or thin hair may need to take special precautions to ensure proper air drying.

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Thin or Straight Hair

Step 1

Wrap your hair in a towel to absorb excess moisture. Gently pat or squeeze the towel. Avoid rubbing, which may raise the hair cuticle and cause split ends.

Step 2

Comb through your hair with a wide-toothed comb. Spray a detangling agent, if necessary, and work from the ends to the roots to remove any tangles. Then comb through from the roots to the ends.

Step 3

Apply an anti-frizz serum if your hair is prone to frizz. Apply styling or setting products at this time, as well.

Step 4

Pull straight or thin hair back in a headband and let your hair hang down in back. Allow your hair to dry naturally.

Thick or Curly Hair

Step 1

Follow steps 1 through 3 in Section 1.

Step 2

Part your hair into four sections -- down the center and from ear to ear -- and braid or twist each section. Use rubber bands to secure the ends, if necessary.

Step 3

Pull your hair back in a headband and let your hair hang down and dry naturally.

Step 4

Remove the twists when your hair is dry. Shake your head to let your waves fall in place.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Things You'll Need

Towel

Wide-toothed comb

Detangling agent (optional)

Anti-frizz serum (optional)

Styling products (optional)

Headband

Rubber bands

Tips

You can also set your hair with curlers and let it air dry.
If you have curly hair, pull your loose hair back in a headband instead of twists and let it air dry. However, curly hair tends to draw up as it dries and may become tangled or frizzy.
Cover your head with a silk scarf if you intend to let your hair dry overnight.

Warnings

Avoid going outside with wet hair, especially in winter. If you must go outside, cover your head with a scarf or hat.